Why did you join the fire service?: "I wanted to do something active that would take advantage of my healthcare background. I was also looking for a challenge and the chance to learn new skills."

Favorite aspect of fire service: "The people I work with and the variety of situations that arise."

Reason nominated: "We call Kathy the 'Pint of Power.' She blazed through Firefighter I and the EMT 2 program. She is a very active volunteer and also is the EMS supply officer for both Auke Bay and Lynn Canal stations. She has done all this even though she has her first grandson, 'Bub,' to spoil."